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Explosive Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SCA UXO Tech III (deploy to Guam)

Centreville, VA · On-site

$37K - $47K/yr

Individuals must be appropriately licensed for the class of vehicle being operated. (f) Transport military munitions, commercial explosives, and MDEH that meets the criteria in Paragraphs 2.2.b.(1)(a ...

$108K/yr

... explosives safety and occupational health to sufficiently interpret and modify or significantly depart from standard techniques in devising specialized operating practices concerned with ...

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Showing results 1-20

Explosive Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$22

$36

How much do explosive operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for explosive operator in Virginia is $22.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Explosive Operators?

Explosive Operators are skilled workers responsible for handling, preparing, and detonating explosives used in various industries, such as mining, construction, demolition, and military applications. They follow strict safety protocols to ensure the safe storage, transportation, and use of explosive materials. Their duties often include assembling charges, setting up blasting equipment, and monitoring blasts to minimize risks to people, property, and the environment. Extensive training and adherence to legal regulations are essential requirements for this job. Explosive Operators must also be detail-oriented and capable of working in high-pressure, potentially hazardous situations.

What is the difference between Explosive Operator vs Blasting Technician?

AspectExplosive OperatorBlasting Technician
Required CertificationsExplosive License, Safety TrainingExplosive License, Safety Training
Work EnvironmentConstruction, Mining, Demolition sitesMining, Quarrying, Construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageMining companies, construction firmsMining companies, quarry operators
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Explosive Operators and Blasting Technicians both handle explosives in construction and mining environments, requiring similar certifications and safety training. While Explosive Operators often oversee the entire blasting process, Blasting Technicians typically assist with setup and monitoring. Both roles are essential for safe and effective blasting operations within the industry.

What are some common challenges faced by Explosive Operators and how are they addressed in the workplace?

Explosive Operators often face challenges related to maintaining strict safety protocols, managing stress in high-risk environments, and ensuring precise handling of materials. To address these challenges, workplaces provide thorough safety training, enforce rigorous procedural checklists, and encourage open communication within tightly coordinated teams. Regular drills, mental health support, and ongoing education are also common practices to help operators stay prepared and confident while minimizing risks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Explosive Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Explosive Operator, you need a solid understanding of explosives handling, safety regulations, and hazardous materials protocols, often supported by specialized training or certification. Familiarity with detonation equipment, safety gear, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Keen attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the safe, precise, and efficient handling of explosives, minimizing risks to people and property.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Explosive operators typically earn between $3,000 and $5,000 per month, often without requiring a college degree but needing specialized training and certifications. Other high-paying jobs without a degree include commercial truck drivers, sales representatives, and skilled trades like electricians or HVAC technicians, which rely on technical skills and apprenticeships. These roles often involve physically demanding work and on-the-job training but can provide a monthly income of around $3,000 or more.
What are popular job titles related to Explosive Operator jobs in Virginia? For Explosive Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Explosive Operator job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,519 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Class A Driver / Equipment Operator

Class A Driver / Equipment Operator

Dyno Nobel

Rockville, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Dyno Nobel rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Safety Bonus Program

We offer safety bonuses! If eligible, you can earn up to 5% of your quarterly pay through our safety incentive program. Drivers qualify by maintaining a safe driving record - no preventable accidents and no major violations. Performance is reviewed each quarter using clear, consistent safety standards.

In addition to the Safety Driver Incentive Program, we also offer:

  • 3 weeks vacation + 12 paid holidays + PTO days
  • Full health benefits including employer HSA contributions + dental plan with an orthodontic option, wellness coaching available
  • Up to a 4% 401k match PLUS additional company contribution from 1% to 5% based on years of service
  • Generous tuition reimbursement program
  • Generous paid parental leave
  • Friendly and supportive coworkers

Who We Are

Dyno Nobel is a global leader in commercial explosives, manufacturing and blasting technology, delivering innovative solutions to the mining, quarry, construction, and seismic industries. With a legacy of safety, performance, and technical excellence, Dyno Nobel is known for pushing the boundaries of what's possible in commercial explosives-helping customers optimize operations, improve productivity, and reduce environmental impact. Backed by a team of dedicated professionals and a commitment to continuous improvement, Dyno Nobel sets the standard for reliable and responsible blasting manufacturing and services worldwide.

What You'll Do

As a Class A Driver / Equipment Operator, you will operate Dyno Nobel trucks and specialty equipment to deliver ANFO and other commercial explosives products to customers in a safe, timely and efficient manner. Other Duties will include:

  • Drive/operate straight bed vehicles over public roads in order to move or deliver explosive products to company or customer sites in a timely and safe manner
  • Drive and operate bulk/blend truck in order to prepare and deliver quality ANFO products to customer sites
  • Operate and perform maintenance on straight, ANFO, and dewatering trucks (or less), deliver and off load product within Dyno Nobel Health and Safety Management System procedures and practices
  • Calibrate equipment, calculate fuel percentages and check emulsion density
  • Load and unload all trucks, and maintain magazines, sites and inventories
  • Follow all safety procedures and maintain safe working conditions in the shop, while driving and operating equipment and while on blast sites in order to protect personal safety and safety of others
  • Prepare and maintain all records and reports concerning the handling and transportation of explosive products, including safety, and the use and detonation of explosives, in order to assure accurate billing, regulatory compliance and performance history
  • This role involves spending approximately 50% of the time outdoors loading and unloading products and 50% delivering orders to customers.

What We're Looking For:

  • Class A CDL required
  • Current Hazmat endorsement required OR willing and able to obtain certification within a specified timeframe after hire may be considered.
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • 2+ years of mechanical, commercial driving, explosives or related work experience preferred
  • Must be able to work early mornings (variable starting times) working 10 - 12 hour shifts
  • Must be willing to undergo and pass an ATF background check as required to be a possessor of explosives.
  • Ability to read, write, and speak English, and to communicate in writing and verbally
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • Positive attitude, friendly demeanor, and a team player

Zero Harm for Everyone Everywhere

Value People - Respect, Recognize & Reward

Think Customer. Everyone. Every day

Treat the Business as our Own

Care for the Community & our Environment

Challenge & Improve the Status Quo

Deliver on our Promises

Dyno Nobel is an equal employment opportunity employer and will give all qualified applicants consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability status, protected veteran status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law.

*Dyno Nobel does not accept unsolicited agency resumes without prior contract agreements for specified role. Agencies should not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Dyno Nobel employees or any other organization location. Dyno Nobel is not responsible for any agency fees related to unsolicited resumes.*

Employment Type: Full time

What Dyno Nobel employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About Dyno Nobel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Dyno Nobel is a global leader in the commercial explosives industry, and you can be a part of something big!

Industry

Coal, metals and minerals mining

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Salt Lake City, UT, US

Year founded

1865

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